
Wood Destroying Insects in Greenville, SC
Protecting Homes and Structures Across Upstate South Carolina
Wood-destroying insects can turn a solid, sturdy structure into a weakened mess if left unchecked. Unlike pests that simply invade your home, these insects feed on or tunnel through wood, causing serious structural damage over time. Whether it’s hollowed-out beams, sawdust-like frass, or weakened decks and porches, catching the problem early is crucial.
At Hotchkiss Pest Control, we specialize in identifying and eliminating these destructive pests before they cause irreversible damage. Our treatments target the source of the problem, removing infestations and helping prevent future issues.
Call (828) 373-3067 today for expert wood-destroying insect control and protect your home before the damage worsens!
Types of Wood-Destroying Insects
Not all wood-destroying insects cause damage in the same way. Some burrow tunnels inside wood to build their nests, while others feed on it directly. No matter their behavior and preferred habitats, all can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Learning about the common wood-destroying insects in our area can help you recognize signs of an infestation before it’s too late.
Here are some of the key culprits:
- Carpenter ants – One of the most common pests in the region, carpenter ants burrow into wood to create smooth, extensive tunnels for their colonies. They don’t eat wood like termites but can still weaken structures over time.
- Carpenter bees – These bees often drill perfectly round holes into untreated or weathered wood to create nests. Over time, their activity can damage siding, decks, and other outdoor wooden structures.
- Powderpost beetles – These beetles lay their eggs in wood, and their larvae tunnel through it during development. They prefer hardwoods, making furniture, flooring, and trim a common target.
- Old house borers – Found more frequently in older, untreated wood, these beetles can cause damage that resembles termite activity. They are particularly concerning in attics or crawl spaces.
- Termites – While termites have their own unique threat, their ability to silently destroy structural wood earns them a mention here as one of the most notorious wood-destroying pests.
If you notice sawdust piles, small exit holes in wood, or weakened structures, it’s time to contact a pest control professional to assess the situation.
Ready to take back your home from pests? Contact our team today to schedule an inspection and get a customized treatment plan designed to keep your space pest-free.

The Impact of Damage Caused by Wood-Destroying Pests
Wood-destroying insects can turn a valuable asset like your home into a costly repair project. Over time, their feeding and nesting behaviors weaken the wood, making it unsafe and expensive to fix. While each insect has its own unique behaviors, the damage they cause can often look similar.
Here’s what you need to know about the risks:
- Structural damage – Carpenter ants and termites can weaken beams, joists, and load-bearing walls, seriously compromising the structural integrity of your home.
- Cosmetic damage – Carpenter bees and powderpost beetles leave behind visible marks like small holes, tunnels, or sawdust trails, marring the appearance of wood.
- Long-term costs – Unchecked infestations increase the immediate damage and diminish your property value. Addressing minor issues early is the key to preventing major expenses.
Proper pest identification and professional intervention are essential to stop the damage and protect your investment.
-
Our team is dedicated to delivering friendly, reliable, and effective pest control every time.
-
We offer affordable, customized treatment plans designed to fit your specific needs and budget.
-
With over a decade of experience, we know how to handle any pest problem with confidence.
-
We’re proud to provide expert pest control solutions tailored to our local community’s needs.